The use of laptop and other mobile devices have made it necessary to opt for wireless routers. When we talk of internet routers they can be either wired or wireless. Wired routers are connected to the PC to enable internet connectivity. Wireless router enables multiple device connectivity whereas wired router can be connected to only one device.

How does Wi-Fi router work?

Wi-fi routers are commonly found internet routers. Data is received by the router from the phone connection and is converted into radio signals. This radio signal is picked by network card that is placed in your computer or laptop or gaming console or smartphone. This signal is then converted into internet data. Through wireless routers it is possible to connect to a number of wireless enabled devices like smartphone, laptop, smartTV, etc. VoIP calls can be made using the wireless router. It gives the facility of browsing from any room in your office or home without have to worry about dangling cables.

Tips to select the right Wi-Fi router?

Coverage Range

Depending on the size of the office or home the range of the wi-fi router has to be selected. Despite the range mentioned on the catalogue there may be variation and this is because of the barriers like walls and ceiling. This can reduce the range of the router. Buying a router that comes with a directional antenna is the best way to direct the signal to the place required. In order to get uninterrupted wireless signal it is important to look for wireless extenders. These may be available with the manufacturer. Look for a compatible extender for bettering the range of the Wi-Fi router. The range or channel width can be set for 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands. But in most cases it is set to Auto where the router takes in the appropriate range.

USB Port

There are wireless routers that come with USB port, using this it becomes easy to connect to USB printer and USB external hard drives. It is best to check the instruction to learn what type of USB connectivity the Wi-Fi USB port supports. Some support only external hard drives and yet others also enable USB printers.

Security

Wireless networks are open to threats and hence the security features have to be intact to protect your computer from any damage. Some wireless routers come with inbuilt security features. This can prevent outsiders from accessing private information. The user should lock the Wi-Fi network using a strong password to protect access by intruders.

Simple configuration

The Wi-Fi router has to be easily configurable especially by end user. A router that is easy to configure can be easy to secure as well. The end user can handle security threats by effectively securing the network and the files.

Dual band router

As the name goes dual band routers can operate on both 2.4GHz and 5.0 GHz frequencies.

Mac Filtering

Mac filtering can be used to allow or prevent a specific device to access your network. In order to activate MAC filtering it has to be enabled within the management interface. Since each device has a MAC address it is easy to assign or deny access.

Backup and Restore

Configuring a Wi-Fi router is one big task; imagine having to reconfigure the router, this could be time consuming, but not anymore. The router backup and restore option makes IT a child’s play. Wi-Fi router configuration can be backed up for future use. Now at the click of a button, you can restore your Wi-Fi router back to the original settings. You can also reset your router to factory settings.

How to buy a Wi-Fi router?

The consumer will be confused by the terminologies the sellers use while buying a router. There are number of standards like 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, NIMO, DHCP, WPA, WPA2, WEP and more. There is no need to worry about the standards as long as the Wi-Fi router does the job assigned to it. Many home environments opt for 802.11n standard. Always look for the configuration of the device before matching a router. Some laptops have 802.11g radio signal. For them, only 802.11g router has to be selected to match the performance.

Looking for home PC network with media streaming device connectivity? Then it is best to look for PC Pro’s testing to ensure if the router can handle streaming. For shared internet connectivity ADSL router is the best alternative, you can bid goodbye to ADSL modem. Also check the router for port-forwarding feature for online gaming and VoIP applications.

Benefits of Wi-Fi router


  • Wireless router comes with modem, network switch and wireless access points.
  • In order to secure the network from intruders built in firewalls are equipped within the router. It is important to look for firewall configuration options before purchasing a router. Keeping security and privacy in mind a good Wi-Fi router with latest security features has to be considered.
  • Irrespective of where you are in the house or office you can connect to the internet via Wi-Fi router.
  • The VoIP technology allows connectivity to the internet with the help of a phone. While browsing the internet, calls can be made from the landline. Using internet, international calls can be made free of cost.
  • Connect to various Wi-Fi enabled devices at the touch of a button.


Some of the top brands in Wi-Fi router sector are Cisco, Linksys, Medialink, ASUS and D-Link. These are backed with latest technology to make it highly effective.

The primary use of wireless router is for home broadband. But now the Wi-Fi router can help connect to mobile broadband as well. Wireless routers have become the order of the day with modern business demanding versatility and performance. The comfort of accessing the internet from anywhere in your home or office makes Wi-Fi router special. Choose the right Wi-Fi router after checking with your requirement. The options are never ending when it comes to selecting a Wi-Fi router.